Volunteers help to breathe new life into overgrown churchyard
Volunteers behind a churchyard restoration project have been enjoying the success of their hard work as the historic area becomes a popular spot for lockdown walks.
The churchyard at Holy Trinity Church in Washington had been left untouched for years, before a group of volunteers came up with a plan to restore it to its former glory, uncovering lost 19th century graves in the process.
The land had become overgrown with ivy and vegetation after years of neglect, but has now been transformed into an ecofriendly nature area and a popular walking spot.
The project started in October 2019, and despite multiple lockdowns is still progressing, albeit slower than planned.
The community group is now looking at new ideas for what members can do next to improve the area.
Volunteer Mary Evans, 78, is excited about what the future holds for the graveyard.
“Work for the team is restricted at the moment but the area is still pleasant and inviting to the public,” she said.
"Since a clear view through the trees has been established, more people are using the paths on their local walks.
“There has been a tremendous amount of local
interest in the project and I think we have made a marked difference to the
graveyard for the community and the environment.
She added: "Fallen gravestones
have been uncovered in the wildlife area. We ensure that these are treated with respect. At a later date, we may look at the possibility of turning over those that are face down so the inscriptions can be seen. But that's just a thought for now.”
Work done by the team has also attracted a number of wildlife to the area including hedgehogs, squirrels and birds, something which was one of the main aims of the project.
Volunteers have also planted a number of flowers in anticipation of spring and hope in the coming months an array of colours will help continue to bring new life to the graveyard.
The group is currently preparing to plan the next stage of the project and hope the recent work they have undertaken will prove to be a big success come spring.